Following IPW 2025, the “Great Lakes Getaway: Iconic Landmarks, Lakeside Charm & Urban Adventures” tour began with a visit steeped in history and refinement: the majestic Charles Gates Dawes House, a château-style mansion in Evanston, Illinois, located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Thanks to strong collaboration with the local tourism team, we enjoyed a guided tour through this architectural landmark. More than just a grand residence from the early 20th century, the Dawes House offers powerful stories about the city’s development and the remarkable life of its original owner, Charles Gates Dawes—Vice President of the United States from 1925 to 1929 and Nobel Peace Prize laureate in 1925. In addition to his political and diplomatic legacy, Dawes was also a successful banker and a talented composer, adding even more richness to our walk through the mansion’s elegant rooms.

Now home to the Evanston History Center, the Dawes House has been beautifully restored to reflect its 1920s grandeur. Every room transports visitors back in time, with stained glass windows, ornate fireplaces, original furnishings, and interactive exhibits showcasing Evanston’s urban growth and its role in the greater Chicago area.

After the tour, we crossed the street to discover one of Evanston’s hidden gems: a peaceful beach along Lake Michigan, just steps from the mansion. With the sun setting over the water, we captured breathtaking photos that perfectly reflect the serenity and sophistication of this lakeside community.

This opening stop made it clear that the Great Lakes region offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty—perfect for travelers in search of authentic, memorable experiences.

Our journey continued with a scenic drive along Chicago’s North Shore. In just 30 minutes, we passed stunning lakefront homes and landmarks, including the Grosse Point Lighthouse. Built in 1873 following a series of shipwrecks, this historic structure was the first lighthouse on the Great Lakes to be designated a National Historic Landmark. Beyond its storied past, the lighthouse is surrounded by vibrant wildflower and butterfly gardens, lovingly maintained by the Evanston Garden Club.

To conclude our day with spiritual and architectural inspiration, we visited the awe-inspiring Baháʼí House of Worship in Wilmette—the oldest of its kind still standing and one of only eight continental Baháʼí temples in the world. Open to people of all faiths, the temple offers a peaceful space for prayer and reflection. Designed by French-Canadian architect Louis Bourgeois, its symmetrical elegance and detailed ornamentation are breathtaking. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, this sacred site invites all visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the universal.